Thirteenth International Conference on Design Principles & Practices

Abstract

From the middle of the nineteenth century to the present day, the phenomenon of the artists’ pilgrimage destinations, peculiar environments of art colonies, the artists and arts patrons’ residences can be mentioned as one of the most interesting examples of the influence that the environs can exert on art and its development. This study examines some examples of artistic colonies and art-residences in Europe and Russia in the perspective of a hypothesis that environmental and spatial conditions can have a significant catalyzing effect on the artist’s creative productivity and development. Design represents both an environmental aspect and one of creative activities possibly inspired by spatial surroundings. The conclusion states the necessity to preserve and develop the cultural tradition of art colonies and residences, as well as their unique destinations, within the framework of sustainable development. Basing on the example of a historic wooden complex, known as the Benois Cottages, located in a suburb of St. Petersburg, Peterhof, on the shore of the Finnish Gulf, methods, problems and prospects of identifying, preserving, and using such destinations in modern conditions are considered.